Liberia and Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in maritime education, technical training and institutional development.
The MoU sets out a plan for both sides to train maritime professionals, share expertise and raise standards across Liberia’s maritime industry. They will jointly create and run programs that strengthen safety, security, environmental management and regulatory oversight.
This agreement builds on discussions held in October during the North Bund Forum in Shanghai. At that meeting, Liberia’s Maritime Authority Commissioner, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr, met with senior SMU officials, including Council Chairman Song Baoru, President Chu Beiping and Vice President Yin Ming. Their talks laid the groundwork for the partnership now taking shape.
A key part of the MoU is the creation of scholarships for talented Liberian students to study at SMU, where they can pursue advanced degrees and specialized technical training. The goal is to support the growth of future maritime professionals who can drive national progress and contribute to global maritime governance.
The partnership also includes technical support, institutional collaboration and faculty exchanges between SMU and the Liberia Maritime Training Institute to strengthen Liberia’s maritime governance system.
Commissioner Lighe expressed confidence that this collaboration will help Liberia build a stronger maritime workforce, enhance institutional capabilities and expand the country’s role in the global maritime community.
source: maritimafrica.com
